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TORONTO — Today, the Ontario government is protecting communities by re-introducing legislation that would, if passed, strengthen municipal governance and accountability.

Ontario is proposing changes through the Municipal Accountability Act, 2025 that would enable the creation of a new, standardized municipal code of conduct, an integrity commissioner inquiry process that would be consistent throughout the province and mandatory code of conduct training for members of council and certain local boards.

“Strong local governance begins with accountability,” said Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “People across Ontario trust their members of council to uphold high standards for how they conduct themselves and address the decisions before them. We have worked closely with Ontario’s Integrity Commissioner to provide municipal leaders with new tools and resources to deliver good government.”

If passed, the changes would include a penalty of removing and disqualifying a member from office if they are in serious violation of the code. Removal and disqualification could only occur upon the recommendation of the municipal integrity commissioner, a concurring report from the Integrity Commissioner of Ontario and a unanimous vote of council.

“Municipal councils in Ontario have asked for legislation that holds elected officials to a higher standard of accountability,” said Robin Jones, AMO President and Mayor of Westport. “If passed, this bill would deliver on ensuring that as members of council, we are living up to the trust that residents put in us. We commend Minister Flack for getting to this point.”

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news.ontario.ca/mmah/enDisponible en français

The Ontario government is considering shortening the length of teachers’ college in order to address a worsening shortage of educators, documents obtained by The Canadian Press suggest.

A freedom-of-information request on teacher supply and demand came back with research and jurisdictional scans the Ministry of Education conducted last year on the supply issue and the length of initial teacher education programs.

Highlighted in the summary of the document on teachers’ college are findings that longer programs do not make better teachers.

“There is little evidence that the amount of course work in ITE (initial teacher education) makes a difference in teachers’ effectiveness when they enter the profession,” the document says.

Real in-class experience, however, does appear to make a difference.

“Literature research shows that teachers who complete longer practicums feel better prepared and are more likely to stay in the profession,” the document says.

Ontario teachers’ college programs are typically two years, divided into four semesters, but that has not always been the case.

A decade ago, Ontario had a teacher surplus, with an unemployment rate of nearly 40 per cent for teachers in their first year after becoming certified.

In 2015, the then-Liberal government made teachers’ college two years instead of one and admission rates plummeted from more than 7,600 in 2011 to 4,500 in 2021, according to the Ontario College of Teachers.

Now, early-career unemployment is at “statistically negligible levels,” according to the college, and there is a widely acknowledged shortage of teachers set to get worse.

Other ministry documents previously obtained by The Canadian Press through a separate freedom-of-information request said that the gap between the number of needed teachers and available teachers is expected to widen starting in 2027.

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A spokesperson for Education Minister Paul Calandra said his focus will be on ensuring the best possible outcomes for students, including proper staffing levels.

“The minister is well aware of the changes the previous government made to teachers’ college programs and has asked the ministry to report back on the best way forward to ensure student success,” Justine Teplycky wrote in a statement.

The Ontario Principals’ Council and the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario are among the groups that have called for a return to one-year programs.

“We’re finding that the cost has become a factor, a barrier for many people to actually commit that length of time to the program,” said Karen Brown, president of ETFO.

“The two-year program, there isn’t actually much more learning taking place…So really, people are saying, ‘What is the purpose of the second year?'”

The Ontario Teachers’ Federation, which advocates for the province’s more than 160,000 teachers, published a paper last year on initial teacher education programs and urged evidence-based change that follows consultations with teachers, but did not call for a specific timeline.

“In terms of program length, it is worth acknowledging that the length of time in which the program is delivered is of less importance than the attainment of the desired outcomes that every graduating teacher should acquire,” the federation wrote.

“That said, we believe that the current length of Ontario’s ITE programs represents a significant barrier for many.”

The federation spoke out against the change to a two-year program, taking the position that three semesters should be delivered over a 12-month period and should include 100 days of practicum. It warned that the four-semester program would lead to teacher shortages, especially in high-needs subjects and regions.

A decade later, the ministry says there is a teacher shortage, particularly for French, technological education, and Indigenous teachers and in northern parts of the province.

The ministry documents list the main factors as increasing enrolment by about 180,000 students over an unspecified time frame, growing rates of retirement – with about 7,800 teachers expected to retire by 2030-31 – and “no immediate change to teacher education in Ontario.”

Six out of Canada’s 13 provinces and territories have four-semester programs, including Ontario, the document says. The international range is between two and four semesters.

All jurisdictions in Canada except the Northwest Territories are experiencing teacher shortages, the document says, and provinces and territories have adopted various strategies to address them. That includes funding for scholarship programs, more teacher training spaces, recognition of foreign credentials, student loan forgiveness, bursaries, and streamlined certification processes.

In recent years Ontario has allowed some teacher candidates to work as supply teachers in response to shortages. But Karen Littlewood, president of the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation, said that isn’t an ideal or long-term solution.

“We’re going to need a lot of people to fill these jobs, but they shouldn’t be in the classroom in front of students until they finish their training,” she said.

“If the training program needs to change, that should change, but we’re putting a Band-Aid on a solution and asking people who — they’re not really unqualified, but they’re not yet qualified — to come in and to solve the problem, as opposed to having the government look at what the issues are in education.”

OSSTF and other teachers’ unions have for years said that working conditions are a cause of teacher shortages.

The president and CEO of the Council of Ontario Universities said the post-secondary institutions are working to “compress and streamline” teachers’ education, and suggested that universities where teachers earn their credentials do not want to see programs shortened.

“The skills and knowledge that teachers need to develop in response to changing technology, social and mental health issues, and to foster student success is only becoming more complex, not less,” Steve Orsini wrote in a statement.

“Anything that would reduce the preparation our teachers receive could affect the quality of education and future success of students.”

Last Updated On 4 May 2025, 8:39 AM EDT (Toronto Time)

Get ready for a financial lift! The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is set to deliver its next payment on May 9, 2025, providing essential support to countless Ontario residents.

This tax-free program is a beacon of relief for low- and moderate-income households grappling with the rising costs of energy, property taxes, and everyday expenses.

With an increase in payment amounts in 2024, the OTB plays a crucial role in assisting Ontarians in meeting their financial obligations.

Are you interested in finding out how much you could receive, who qualifies, or how to ensure you get your share?

This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know to tap into this critical benefit.

From eligibility rules to payment schedules and expert tips, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s dive in and unlock the full potential of the OTB payments!

Table of Contents

Understanding the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)

Ontario Trillium Benefit Payment Dates 2025

Who Can Claim the Ontario Trillium Benefit in 2025?

How Much Money Can You Get from the OTB?

Steps to Secure Your OTB

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the OTB

Understanding the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB)

The Ontario Trillium Benefit is a powerful, tax-free initiative designed to ease financial pressures for Ontarians.

Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), it bundles three distinct provincial credits into a single payment, offering support for various living costs:

Payments are issued either monthly or as a one-time lump sum, depending on your total benefit amount, and they are calculated based on your most recent tax return.

Whether you’re a student, senior, renter, or homeowner, the OTB could inject hundreds or thousands of dollars into your budget each year.

Ontario Trillium Benefit Payment Dates 2025

To keep your finances on track, here’s the complete Ontario Trillium Benefit payment schedule for 2025:

Important Details:

Who Can Claim the Ontario Trillium Benefit in 2025?

Qualifying for the OTB is straightforward, but each credit has specific requirements. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to be eligible:

Basic Eligibility Criteria

Credit-Specific Requirements

The OTB’s three credits cater to different needs:

Quick Tip: If you’re uncertain about your eligibility, reach out to the CRA or a tax advisor. Missing a single criterion could cost you valuable funds.

How Much Money Can You Get from the OTB?

Your OTB payment varies based on your income, household size, location, and the credits you qualify for.

Below are the maximum annual amounts available until June 2025:

Northern Ontario Energy Credit (NOEC)

Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit (OEPTC)

Ontario Sales Tax Credit (OSTC)

Potential Total: By combining these credits, some households could receive over $2,000 per year, providing significant relief for essentials like utilities, rent, or groceries.

Note: Starting July 2025, amounts will be recalculated based on your 2024 tax return and any updates to CRA guidelines.

Regularly check the CRA website for the latest information.

Steps to Secure Your OTB

Accessing your OTB is simple, but precision is key to avoid missing out. Follow these steps to ensure you receive your funds:

Pro Tip: If you’re new to tax filing or need assistance, explore free tax clinics through the CRA’s Community Volunteer Income Tax Program or consult a tax professional.

The Ontario Trillium Benefit is a vital resource for Ontarians navigating financial challenges.

With the next payment hitting accounts on May 9, 2025, now is the perfect time to ensure you’re eligible and ready to receive your funds.

By filing your taxes, keeping your CRA information updated, and optimizing your credits, you could access hundreds or thousands of dollars in tax-free support.

For more details, visit the CRA website or consult a tax professional to maximize your benefit.

Take action today to secure your share of the OTB and ease your financial burden in 2025!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the OTB

Let’s address some common questions to clarify the Ontario Trillium Benefit:

The OTB is a tax-free program that combines three credits—OEPTC, NOEC, and OSTC—to support Ontarians with energy, property, and sales tax costs.

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Last Updated On 2 May 2025, 9:02 AM EDT (Toronto Time)

North Bay RCIP 2025: North Bay, Ontario, is opening its doors to skilled foreign workers through the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP).

RCIP is a transformative program designed to address labour shortages in rural Canada while offering newcomers a direct pathway to permanent residency (PR).

This employer-driven initiative targets high-demand sectors and occupations, making it a golden opportunity for professionals worldwide to build a secure, prosperous future in one of Canada’s most welcoming communities.

With labour shortages impacting rural economies, the RCIP is a strategic solution to attract talent to smaller towns like North Bay, fostering economic growth and community development.

This article explores the ins and outs of North Bay’s RCIP, its priority sectors and occupations, and eligibility criteria.

Whether you’re a skilled tradesperson, healthcare professional, or educator, this guide will show you how to seize this chance to live and work in Canada permanently.

North Bay, Ontario RCIP 2025 Details

What is the North Bay RCIP 2025?

North Bay’s Priority Sectors for 2025

Priority Occupations and NOC Codes for 2025

How the RCIP Works: A Step-by-Step Guide

Eligibility Criteria for RCIP Applicants

Tips for a Successful RCIP Application

The Future of Rural Immigration in Canada

Take the Next Step

What is the North Bay RCIP 2025?

The Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) is a Canadian immigration program launched to address workforce shortages in rural and smaller communities.

Unlike urban-centric immigration streams like Express Entry, the RCIP focuses on localized labour needs, allowing communities like North Bay to attract skilled workers who can contribute to long-term economic and social growth.

North Bay’s RCIP is employer-driven, meaning foreign nationals must secure a job offer from a designated employer in an approved sector or occupation to qualify.

Once hired, candidates can apply for permanent residency, bypassing the lengthy temporary work permit phase that many other immigration pathways require.

This streamlined approach not only fills critical job vacancies but also encourages population growth in rural areas, where immigration has historically been low.

The program’s structure ensures that both employers and immigrants benefit.

Employers gain access to a global talent pool, while workers secure stable jobs and a clear path to Canadian citizenship.

For 2025, North Bay has tailored its RCIP to focus on five priority sectors, reflecting the region’s most pressing workforce needs.

North Bay’s Priority Sectors for 2025

North Bay has strategically selected five sectors for its 2025 RCIP, based on labor market data, economic growth potential, and community needs.

These sectors are:

Business, Finance, and Administration

This sector includes roles critical to organizational operations, such as accounting technicians, administrative assistants, and human resources professionals.

With businesses in North Bay expanding, these positions are in high demand to support operational efficiency.

Health

Healthcare is a cornerstone of rural communities, and North Bay is no exception.

From registered nurses to nurse aides and pharmacy assistants, the RCIP targets professionals who can address the region’s growing healthcare needs.

Education, Law, Social, Community, and Government Services

This sector encompasses roles like early childhood educators, social workers, and school assistants, reflecting North Bay’s commitment to fostering strong community services and educational systems.

Sales and Service

Positions like hotel front desk clerks and security guards fall under this category, supporting North Bay’s tourism and service industries, which are vital to the local economy.

Trades and Transport

Skilled tradespeople, including electricians, carpenters, and HVAC mechanics, are essential for infrastructure development and maintenance in North Bay’s growing economy.

By focusing on these sectors, North Bay ensures that the RCIP aligns with its economic priorities, creating a win-win for employers and immigrants.

Priority Occupations and NOC Codes for 2025

Within the five priority sectors, North Bay has identified specific occupations eligible for the RCIP.

Each occupation is classified under a National Occupational Classification (NOC) code, which standardizes job roles across Canada.

Below is a detailed list of key roles and their corresponding NOC codes:

Retail, fast food, gas station, and convenience store jobs are currently excluded from North Bay’s RCIP eligibility list, as the program prioritizes skilled and semi-skilled roles with long-term economic impact.

How the RCIP Works: A Step-by-Step Guide

The RCIP’s employer-driven model sets it apart from other Canadian immigration programs.

Here’s how it works:

Employer Designation

Employers in North Bay must apply to become designated under the RCIP.

This process verifies that their job offers align with the program’s priority sectors and occupations.

Job Offer

Foreign nationals must secure a full-time, permanent job offer from a designated employer in one of the approved occupations.

The job offer is a critical component of the PR application.

Eligibility Check

Candidates must meet the RCIP’s eligibility criteria (detailed below), including work experience, language proficiency, education, settlement funds, and intent to reside in North Bay.

PR Application

With a valid job offer and supporting documents, candidates apply for permanent residency through the RCIP.

The application is processed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Settlement in North Bay

Once approved, immigrants relocate to North Bay, begin their jobs, and integrate into the community, with support from local settlement services.

This localized approach ensures that immigration meets real-time labor demands while fostering long-term community growth.

For candidates, the RCIP offers a faster, more direct route to PR compared to other pathways.

Eligibility Criteria for RCIP Applicants

To qualify for North Bay’s RCIP, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Work Experience

At least one year (1,560 hours) of continuous, paid work experience in the past three years in an eligible occupation.

International graduates with a Canadian credential may be exempt from this requirement.

Language Proficiency

Minimum language skills in English or French, as assessed by an approved test (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF).

The required level depends on the occupation’s NOC code.

Education

A Canadian educational credential (e.g., diploma or degree) or a foreign credential verified by an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).

Settlement Funds

Proof of sufficient funds to support oneself and any accompanying family members during the initial settlement period.

The exact amount varies based on family size.

Intent to Reside

A genuine commitment to live and work in North Bay long-term, demonstrated through a settlement plan or ties to the community.

Meeting these criteria ensures that candidates are well-equipped to succeed in North Bay’s workforce and contribute to the community’s growth.

Tips for a Successful RCIP Application

To boost your chances of success in North Bay’s RCIP, follow these expert tips:

Research Eligible Occupations

Ensure your skills and experience align with one of the approved NOC codes.

Tailor your resume to highlight relevant qualifications.

Secure a Job Offer

Network with North Bay employers to connect with designated employers offering RCIP-eligible jobs.

Prepare Documents Early

Gather proof of work experience, language test results, ECA reports, and settlement funds well in advance to avoid delays.

Demonstrate Community Commitment

Show your intent to settle in North Bay through a detailed settlement plan or connections to the community.

By following these steps, you’ll position yourself as a strong candidate for the RCIP and increase your chances of approval.

The Future of Rural Immigration in Canada

The RCIP is part of a broader trend in Canadian immigration policy, which increasingly recognizes the importance of rural communities in driving national economic growth.

Programs like the RCIP not only address labor shortages but also promote diversity, innovation, and resilience in smaller towns.

As Canada continues to expand its immigration targets—aiming to welcome over 500,000 new permanent residents annually by 2026—rural pilots like North Bay’s RCIP will play a crucial role.

For skilled workers, these programs offer a unique opportunity to bypass the competitive urban immigration streams and settle in communities where their contributions are deeply valued.

Take the Next Step

With North Bay’s RCIP now accepting candidates for 2025, there’s no better time to start your immigration journey.

Whether you’re a nurse, electrician, or administrative professional, this program offers a clear path to permanent residency and a fulfilling life in Canada.

Stay updated with Immigration Canada News.

Muskan Kaura

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Health Matters

Ontario Measles outbreak grows to 1,243 total confirmed cases

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Ontario is reporting its highest increase in measles cases since its outbreak began, with 223 new infections in the province over the past week.

That brings the total number of people in the province who have fallen ill from the virus to 1,243 since October.

Public Health Ontario said in a report Thursday that 84 people have been hospitalized – including 63 children – during the course of this outbreak. Eight patients have been admitted to intensive care.

The agency notes that its southwestern public health unit has had 57 new infections, compared to 15 the previous week. Neighbouring Grand Erie Public Health is also seeing an uptick with 46 cases, compared to two the previous week.

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Southwestern Public Health Unit’s Dr. Ninh Tran said this “sharp rise” is due to exposures in large unvaccinated households between siblings and other family members, and places where unimmunized people gather.

He said the increase in cases is not tied to any “particular singular” event, but rather, it’s due to a group of cases linked to one another. However, he did not pin the spread to a particular group.

Tran said the duration of hospital stays on average is usually just over three days, and ranges from about one to 11 days.

The City of Ottawa on Thursday also reported its first confirmed cases of measles since 2019.

Alberta reported 170 measles cases Wednesday – including nine hospitalizations – since its outbreak began in March.

Alberta Medical Association president Dr. Shelley Duggan told The Canadian Press last week the numbers suggest that within weeks, that count could skyrocket to more than 1,000, like in Ontario.

2:43 Could Measles become endemic? Record levels of new infections in Canada, U.S. have doctors concerned